Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to receive, at an access node, an indication of a remote user equipment having a layer 3 relay selection, wherein the indication comprises information about at least a selected relay node; send an indication to a network entity regarding the layer 3 relay selection; and configure the remote user equipment with at least one extended discontinuous reception period in response to the received indication of the remote user equipment having a layer 3 relay selection.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of optimizing power efficiency for remote user equipment (UE) operating through a layer 3 relay node. In such networks, remote UEs communicate with a base station via an intermediate relay node, which can introduce additional latency and signaling overhead. The invention provides an apparatus, such as a base station or access node, that includes at least one processor and memory storing executable code. The apparatus receives an indication that a remote UE has selected a layer 3 relay node, including details about the selected relay. It then sends this information to a network entity, such as a core network component, to facilitate relay-aware network operations. Additionally, the apparatus configures the remote UE with an extended discontinuous reception (DRX) period to reduce power consumption by minimizing active listening intervals. The extended DRX period accounts for the relayed communication path, ensuring the UE remains synchronized while conserving energy. This approach improves battery life for remote UEs in relay-assisted networks without compromising connectivity.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the indication regarding the layer 3 relay selection comprises information configured to permit the network entity to page at least one corresponding relay node.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving relay node selection and paging efficiency in networks using layer 3 relays. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in paging relay nodes when a network entity needs to locate a user equipment (UE) that may be connected through multiple potential relay nodes. Current methods often require excessive signaling or fail to optimize relay selection, leading to delays and resource waste. The apparatus includes a network entity configured to select a relay node for communication with a UE. The selection is based on criteria such as signal strength, load balancing, or UE mobility patterns. The apparatus further generates an indication regarding the selected relay node, which includes information that allows the network entity to page at least one corresponding relay node. This indication ensures that the paging process is directed to the most relevant relay nodes, reducing unnecessary signaling and improving network efficiency. The apparatus may also include a relay node selection module that evaluates multiple relay nodes and a paging module that uses the generated indication to initiate paging. The system optimizes resource usage by focusing paging efforts on the most likely relay nodes, enhancing overall network performance.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the indication of the remote user equipment having the layer 3 relay selection is received from at least one of the remote user equipment or a relay node.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to apparatuses and methods for selecting relay nodes in a network where user equipment (UE) devices communicate through intermediate relay nodes. The problem addressed is the efficient and dynamic selection of relay nodes to optimize communication performance, particularly in scenarios where direct communication between a base station and UE is unreliable or inefficient. The apparatus includes a processor configured to receive an indication that a remote UE device has the capability to perform layer 3 relay selection. This indication can be provided either directly from the remote UE or from a relay node itself. Layer 3 relay selection involves higher-layer (network layer) decisions for choosing the most suitable relay node based on factors such as signal strength, latency, or network load. The apparatus further includes a transmitter to send configuration information to the remote UE or relay node, enabling them to participate in the relay selection process. The system ensures that relay nodes are dynamically selected to improve communication reliability and efficiency, particularly in scenarios with multiple potential relay paths. The invention also includes mechanisms for the remote UE or relay node to report their relay selection capabilities, allowing the network to adaptively manage relay assignments. This dynamic approach helps mitigate issues like signal degradation or congestion, enhancing overall network performance. The apparatus may also include a receiver to obtain additional data, such as channel quality reports, to further refine relay selection decisions. The system is designed to work in environments where direct communication is challenging, such as in dense urban areas or indoor
4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the indication of the remote user equipment having the layer 3 relay selection comprises information about at least the remote user equipment.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving relay selection in networks where user equipment (UE) acts as a relay for other devices. The problem addressed is efficiently determining and signaling which UE should serve as a relay, particularly in scenarios where multiple UEs are capable of relaying data. The solution involves an apparatus that receives and processes an indication from a remote UE, which includes information about the remote UE's ability to function as a layer 3 relay. This indication helps the network or another device select the most suitable relay UE based on factors such as the remote UE's capabilities, location, or signal strength. The apparatus may then use this information to establish or optimize relay connections, ensuring reliable and efficient data transmission. The invention focuses on enhancing relay selection by leveraging specific details about the remote UE, such as its identity, signal conditions, or other relevant parameters, to improve network performance and resource utilization. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where direct communication between devices is challenging, and relaying is necessary to maintain connectivity.
5. The apparatus of claim 4 , wherein the selected relay node comprises a relay user equipment.
6. The apparatus of claim 5 , wherein the layer 3 relay is based on a direct device-to-device communication between the remote user equipment and the relay user equipment.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving data relay between user equipment (UE) devices in scenarios where direct communication with a network is unreliable or unavailable. The problem addressed is ensuring continuous connectivity for remote UEs by leveraging nearby relay UEs to forward data, particularly in layer 3 (network layer) communication. The apparatus includes a relay user equipment (UE) that facilitates direct device-to-device (D2D) communication with a remote UE, bypassing traditional network infrastructure. The relay UE receives data from the remote UE and forwards it to a network node, such as a base station, or vice versa. This direct D2D communication at the layer 3 level enables efficient data transfer without relying on intermediate network components, reducing latency and improving reliability in weak signal areas. The relay UE is configured to establish a direct communication link with the remote UE, ensuring seamless data relay. This setup is particularly useful in scenarios like emergency communications, rural areas, or disaster recovery, where network coverage is limited. The apparatus may also include mechanisms to select the most suitable relay UE based on signal strength, proximity, or other performance metrics to optimize data transmission. By enabling direct D2D communication at the network layer, the invention enhances connectivity for remote UEs while reducing dependency on centralized network infrastructure, improving overall system robustness and efficiency.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the indication of the remote user equipment having the layer 3 relay selection comprises at least one of a node identifier, other discoverable context of a selected relay node and/or the remote user equipment, a security context of the selected relay node and/or the remote user equipment in a previous serving cell, and an indication that minimizing service interruption for the remote user equipment is determined as needed or not.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to apparatuses and methods for selecting and managing relay nodes in a network to minimize service interruptions for user equipment (UE). The problem addressed is ensuring seamless connectivity for UEs when transitioning between cells or relay nodes, particularly in scenarios where direct communication with a base station is unreliable or inefficient. The apparatus includes a processor configured to determine whether a remote UE requires a layer 3 relay selection, which involves selecting a relay node to facilitate communication between the UE and a base station. The apparatus generates an indication that the remote UE needs relay selection, which may include a node identifier for the selected relay node or the remote UE, discoverable context information about the relay node or UE, a security context from a previous serving cell, or an assessment of whether minimizing service interruption is necessary. This indication helps the network efficiently manage relay selection and handover processes, reducing disruptions in service. The apparatus may also include a transceiver to communicate the relay selection indication to other network components, ensuring coordinated relay management. The invention improves network reliability and user experience by dynamically adapting relay selection based on real-time conditions and historical context.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: determine that the remote user equipment did not reestablish a radio resource control connection using regular access mode within the configured at least one extended discontinuous reception period; and release an active radio context based on the determination.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically managing radio resource control (RRC) connections in user equipment (UE) operating in extended discontinuous reception (eDRX) mode. The problem addressed is inefficient resource utilization when a UE fails to reestablish an RRC connection within an eDRX cycle, leading to unnecessary consumption of network and device resources. The apparatus includes at least one processor, memory, and computer program code configured to monitor a UE's RRC connection status during eDRX operation. The system detects whether the UE reestablishes an RRC connection using regular access mode within the configured eDRX period. If the UE does not reestablish the connection within this timeframe, the apparatus releases the active radio context associated with that UE. This release frees up network resources and improves system efficiency by preventing the maintenance of inactive connections. The apparatus may also include components for configuring eDRX parameters, tracking connection attempts, and managing radio contexts. The solution optimizes resource allocation by dynamically releasing connections that remain inactive beyond the eDRX period, reducing unnecessary signaling and power consumption. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where UEs frequently enter and exit eDRX mode, such as in IoT or machine-type communication applications.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to instruct a relay node to release a connection to the remote user equipment upon determination that the connection is to be released.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to managing connections between relay nodes and remote user equipment (UE) in a network. The problem addressed is inefficient resource utilization and unnecessary power consumption when relay nodes maintain connections to remote UEs that are no longer needed. The invention provides a solution by dynamically releasing such connections when they are determined to be unnecessary. The apparatus includes at least one processor, at least one memory, and computer program code stored in the memory. The processor executes the code to monitor connections between relay nodes and remote UEs. When the apparatus determines that a connection should be released—such as when the remote UE is inactive, out of range, or no longer requires the relay—it instructs the relay node to terminate the connection. This ensures that network resources and power are conserved by avoiding unnecessary maintenance of idle or obsolete connections. The apparatus may also include additional features, such as tracking connection quality, user activity, or network conditions, to make more informed decisions about when to release connections. The invention improves efficiency in wireless networks by reducing unnecessary signaling and resource allocation.
10. An apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to determine that a layer 3 relay is selected for a remote user equipment; send an indication to a serving access node about the layer 3 relay selection, wherein the indication comprises information about at least a selected relay node; and configure the remote user equipment with at least one extended discontinuous reception period in response to the determination that the remote user equipment has selected a layer 3 relay.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving energy efficiency for remote user equipment (UE) in relay-based networks. The problem addressed is the excessive power consumption of remote UEs when communicating through layer 3 relays, which lack direct control over the UE's power-saving mechanisms. The apparatus includes at least one processor and memory storing computer program code. The system determines when a remote UE has selected a layer 3 relay for communication. Upon this determination, it sends an indication to the serving access node, specifying the selected relay node. The apparatus then configures the remote UE with at least one extended discontinuous reception (DRX) period. Extended DRX periods allow the UE to enter low-power states more frequently, reducing energy consumption while maintaining connectivity through the relay. The solution optimizes power usage by dynamically adjusting DRX cycles based on relay selection, ensuring efficient operation in relay-assisted networks. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where remote UEs rely on relays for extended coverage or capacity enhancement.
11. The apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the indication about the layer 3 relay selection comprises information about at least the remote user equipment.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to apparatuses and methods for selecting and managing layer 3 relays in a network. The problem addressed is the efficient and dynamic selection of relay nodes to optimize communication performance, particularly in scenarios where direct communication between devices is unreliable or inefficient. The apparatus includes a relay selection module that determines the optimal relay node based on various factors, such as signal strength, network load, and device capabilities. The relay selection process involves evaluating multiple potential relay nodes and selecting the most suitable one to forward data between a source device and a destination device. The apparatus also includes a communication interface for transmitting and receiving data through the selected relay node. Additionally, the apparatus provides an indication about the layer 3 relay selection, which includes information about the remote user equipment involved in the communication. This indication helps in managing the relay selection process and ensuring seamless data transmission. The invention improves communication efficiency by dynamically adapting to network conditions and selecting the most appropriate relay nodes.
12. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the selected relay node comprises a relay user equipment.
A wireless communication system addresses the challenge of extending network coverage and improving data transmission efficiency in scenarios where direct communication between a base station and user equipment (UE) is unreliable or inefficient. The system includes a relay node, such as a relay user equipment (UE), which facilitates communication between the base station and one or more target UEs. The relay UE receives data from the base station and forwards it to the target UE, or vice versa, using a relaying protocol. The relay UE may operate in a half-duplex mode, where it switches between transmitting and receiving to avoid interference. The system dynamically selects the relay UE based on factors such as signal strength, channel quality, and network load to optimize performance. The relay UE may also adjust its transmission power and frequency resources to minimize interference and maximize throughput. This approach enhances coverage, reduces latency, and improves reliability in wireless networks, particularly in areas with poor direct connectivity or high interference.
13. The apparatus of claim 12 , wherein the layer 3 relay is based on a direct device-to-device communication between the remote user equipment and the relay user equipment.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving data relay between user equipment (UE) devices in scenarios where direct communication with a network is unreliable or unavailable. The problem addressed is the need for efficient, low-latency data transfer between remote UEs and a network via relay UEs, particularly in edge or disconnected environments. The apparatus includes a layer 3 relay that facilitates communication between a remote UE and a relay UE. The relay UE acts as an intermediary, forwarding data between the remote UE and a core network. The relay UE is configured to establish a direct device-to-device (D2D) communication link with the remote UE, bypassing traditional network infrastructure. This direct link reduces latency and conserves network resources by avoiding unnecessary routing through base stations or other network nodes. The relay UE is equipped with protocols to manage the relay function, including authentication, data forwarding, and quality-of-service (QoS) enforcement. The remote UE communicates with the relay UE using standardized wireless protocols, such as those defined in 3GPP specifications, ensuring compatibility and interoperability. The direct D2D communication is optimized for efficiency, minimizing power consumption and maximizing throughput. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios like emergency communications, IoT deployments, or rural areas where network coverage is limited. By leveraging direct D2D relaying, the system ensures reliable data transmission even when direct network access is unavailable. The invention enhances connectivity resilience and supports seamless communication in challenging environments.
14. A method, comprising: receiving, at an access node, an indication of a remote user equipment having a layer 3 relay selection; sending an indication to a network entity regarding the layer 3 relay selection, wherein the indication comprises information about at least a selected relay node; and configuring the remote user equipment with at least one extended discontinuous reception period in response to the received indication of the remote user equipment having a layer 3 relay selection.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving efficiency in networks where user equipment (UE) communicates through relay nodes. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in managing power consumption and signaling overhead for UEs that use layer 3 relay selection, where the UE selects a relay node for communication with the network. The method involves an access node receiving an indication that a remote UE has performed a layer 3 relay selection, meaning the UE has chosen a specific relay node to facilitate its communication with the network. The access node then sends an indication to a network entity, such as a core network component, providing details about the selected relay node. This allows the network to optimize resource allocation and signaling paths. Additionally, the access node configures the remote UE with at least one extended discontinuous reception (eDRX) period. eDRX allows the UE to enter a low-power state for longer durations, reducing energy consumption while maintaining connectivity. This is particularly useful for relayed communications, where signaling delays and power efficiency are critical. By coordinating relay selection information with eDRX configuration, the method enhances network efficiency and UE battery life in relay-based wireless systems. The approach ensures that the network is aware of the relay path while minimizing unnecessary signaling and power usage.
15. The method of claim 14 , wherein the indication regarding the layer 3 relay selection comprises information configured to permit the network entity to page at least one corresponding relay node.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for selecting and managing relay nodes in a network to improve communication efficiency and reliability. The problem addressed involves optimizing the selection and paging of relay nodes to ensure efficient data transmission and reduce latency in multi-hop communication scenarios. The method involves determining a layer 3 relay selection for a communication session, where the selection is based on network conditions, device capabilities, or other performance metrics. The key aspect of this invention is the inclusion of an indication regarding the relay selection, which contains information that allows a network entity to page at least one corresponding relay node. This indication ensures that the network can efficiently locate and activate the appropriate relay node(s) for the communication session, reducing delays and improving resource utilization. The relay selection process may involve evaluating multiple relay nodes based on factors such as signal strength, load balancing, or energy efficiency. Once the optimal relay node(s) is selected, the indication is generated and transmitted to the network entity, which then uses this information to initiate paging procedures. This ensures that the relay node(s) is available and ready to participate in the communication session, enhancing overall network performance. By providing detailed information about the relay selection in the indication, the method enables the network to dynamically adapt to changing conditions and maintain efficient communication paths. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple relay nodes are available, and the network must quickly determine the most suitable relay for a giv
16. The method of claim 14 , wherein the indication of the remote user equipment having the layer 3 relay selection is received from at least one of the remote user equipment or a relay node.
In wireless communication systems, efficient relay selection is critical for maintaining reliable connectivity, especially in scenarios where direct communication between user equipment (UE) and a base station is challenging. This invention addresses the need for dynamic and accurate relay selection by providing a method to determine whether a remote UE has the capability to perform layer 3 relay selection. The method involves receiving an indication from either the remote UE itself or a relay node, confirming that the remote UE is capable of selecting a relay node at the network layer (layer 3). This capability allows the remote UE to choose an optimal relay node based on network conditions, signal strength, or other performance metrics, improving communication efficiency and reliability. The indication ensures that the network is aware of the remote UE's relay selection capability, enabling better resource management and coordination. By leveraging this method, the system can dynamically adapt to changing network conditions, reducing latency and improving overall communication quality. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where direct communication is impaired, such as in dense urban environments or areas with obstructions. The method enhances the flexibility and robustness of relay-based communication systems.
17. The method of claim 14 , wherein the indication of the remote user equipment having the layer 3 relay selection comprises information about at least the remote user equipment.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for selecting and managing relay nodes in a network to improve connectivity and efficiency. The problem addressed is the need for efficient relay selection in scenarios where direct communication between devices is unreliable or impossible, such as in dense urban environments or areas with poor signal coverage. The invention provides a solution by enabling a network node to determine whether a remote user equipment (UE) is capable of acting as a layer 3 relay, which involves forwarding data between other devices and the network. The method involves receiving an indication from the remote UE that it can perform relay functions, where this indication includes specific information about the remote UE, such as its capabilities, location, or signal strength. This information allows the network to make informed decisions about relay selection, optimizing data transmission paths and reducing latency. The invention also includes steps for the network node to process this indication and configure the remote UE as a relay if appropriate, ensuring seamless and efficient communication in challenging environments. The solution improves network reliability and performance by dynamically leveraging available UEs as relays based on real-time conditions.
18. The method of claim 14 , wherein the indication of the remote user equipment having the layer 3 relay selection comprises at least one of a node identifier, other discoverable context of a selected relay node and/or the remote user equipment, a security context of the selected relay node and/or the remote user equipment in a previous serving cell, and an indication that minimizing service interruption for the remote user equipment is determined as needed or not.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for selecting and managing relay nodes to minimize service interruptions for remote user equipment (UE) during handover or mobility procedures. The problem addressed is ensuring seamless connectivity when a UE relies on a relay node for communication, particularly in scenarios where the relay node may change or the UE needs to transition between different network nodes. The method involves determining whether a remote UE requires a layer 3 relay selection, which involves higher-layer signaling for relay node management. When such a selection is needed, the system provides an indication that includes at least one of the following: a node identifier for the selected relay node or the remote UE, discoverable context information about the relay node or UE (such as capabilities or configuration details), a security context from a previous serving cell (to maintain secure communication), and an explicit indication of whether minimizing service interruption is necessary for the UE. This ensures that the network can efficiently manage relay node selection and handover processes while maintaining service continuity. The solution is particularly useful in scenarios where UEs operate in relay-dependent modes, such as device-to-device (D2D) communication or multi-hop networks.
19. The method of claim 14 , further comprising: determining that the remote user equipment did not reestablish a radio resource control connection using regular access mode within the configured at least one extended discontinuous reception period; and releasing an active radio context based on the determination.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically managing radio resource control (RRC) connections in scenarios where user equipment (UE) fails to reestablish connectivity within an extended discontinuous reception (eDRX) period. The problem addressed is ensuring efficient resource management when a remote UE does not reconnect as expected, preventing unnecessary consumption of network resources. The method involves monitoring a UE configured with at least one eDRX period, where the UE is expected to reestablish an RRC connection using regular access mode within that period. If the UE fails to do so, the system determines this failure and releases the active radio context associated with the UE. This release frees up network resources that would otherwise remain allocated to the inactive UE, improving overall system efficiency. The method may also include additional steps such as transmitting a paging message to the UE before determining the failure to reconnect, ensuring the UE has an opportunity to reestablish the connection before resource release. The invention applies to wireless communication systems where UEs operate in extended DRX modes, such as in IoT or low-power applications, where efficient resource management is critical.
20. The method of claim 14 , further comprising: instructing a relay node to release a connection to the remote user equipment upon determination that the connection is to be released.
A method for managing network connections in a wireless communication system addresses the problem of inefficient resource utilization when maintaining unnecessary connections between relay nodes and remote user equipment. The method involves monitoring the status of connections between relay nodes and remote user equipment to determine whether a connection should be released. Upon detecting that a connection is no longer needed, the system instructs the relay node to terminate the connection, freeing up network resources. This process includes evaluating connection parameters such as activity levels, signal quality, or user equipment mobility to decide whether to release the connection. The method ensures that network resources are allocated efficiently by avoiding unnecessary maintenance of inactive or low-utility connections. By dynamically releasing connections, the system optimizes network performance and reduces energy consumption. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where relay nodes serve multiple remote user equipment devices, ensuring that only active or high-priority connections are maintained. This approach enhances overall network efficiency and reliability by preventing resource wastage on idle connections.
Unknown
August 11, 2020
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